Pakistan’s Karate contingent secured a remarkable 18 medals at the 7th South Asian Karate Championship in Kathmandu, Nepal, including two gold, one silver, and 15 bronze medals. Arzoo Khan and Laiba Zia clinched gold in the -66 kg and -50 kg categories, respectively.
Accompanied by Mohammad Jahangir, Chairperson of the Pakistan Karate Federation, the 22-member contingent from Faisalabad and Karachi received special treatment from Nepalese authorities. Sensei Shah Faisal and Sensei Imtiaz Ali managed and coached the team.
The championship featured competitions across cadet, junior, under-21, and senior categories, with participants from Pakistan, India, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.
Pakistan excelled in individual kata, team kumite, and team kata events, showcasing commendable performance on an international stage with heightened competition. The athletes, returning as heroes, are set to receive a warm welcome in Pakistan. Monetary prizes and coaching support will further enhance their skills and mindset as they gear up for upcoming international events, solidifying their contribution to the nation’s pride.